A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Manchester vs. Lyon for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Manchester or Lyon?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Manchester and Lyon can help you decide which place is right for you.

Manchester

Manchester is a dynamic, diverse, and cultural city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Lyon

Lyon is a quaint, authentic, and historic city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Manchester and Lyon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Manchester or Lyon?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lyon than Manchester. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Lyon is very popular for its museums, food, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Manchester attracts visitors for its music. Lyon is more touristy than Manchester and is popular for its world-renowned cuisine, charming old town, and vibrant new town. It is also well known for The Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Manchester is famous for its strong music culture as well as being home to the world-renowned Manchester United Football Club.

How is Manchester different from Lyon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Lyon and Manchester. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Manchester or Lyon?

Lyon is very popular for its historical sights. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Lyon from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. There are many world class museums and historic landmarks in the city including Musée des Beaux Arts, Musée de la Civilisation Gallo-Romaine, and Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Manchester can be an interesting and educational experience. Head to the Science and Industry Museum, the Imperial War Museum North, Manchester Cathedral, or John Rylands Library & Manchester Central Library to see some of the cities most interesting sights.

Is the Food Better in Manchester or Lyon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lyon is very popular for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Lyon has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Known as "the Gastronomic Capital of the World" this city stands above the rest when it comes to Michelin star restaurants (there are 17!), fresh ingredients, and unique local flavors. Favorite local dishes include pâté en croûte, rosette de Lyon, and saucisson brioché.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Manchester. You'll find a great food scene with diverse restaurant options that include international flavors, vegetarian options, and more. There are also many great places to try craft beer.

Is Manchester or Lyon Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is excellent in both Manchester and Lyon.

Many people head to Manchester for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene is diverse and high energy. Head to Deansgate or the Northern Quarter for some of the best nightlife venues. You'll also find a huge rave scene in town.

Lyon has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city has enough diverse neighborhoods that you'll find a scene that is great for everyone. There are dance clubs, cocktail bars, and wine bars that meet every personality and style.

Is Manchester or Lyon Better for Music?

Manchester is a well-known place for its live music scene. However, Lyon is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Manchester is very popular with diverse venues. There's a long running music reputation here. Some of the iconic bands that began here include Oasis and Stone Roses.

Lyon is not a live music destination.

Is Manchester or Lyon Better for its Old Town?

Lyon is very popular for its historic old town. However, Manchester does not have a historic old town.

Lyon has a world-famous historical area. This impressive old town climbs from the river into Fourvière Hill. It's a Renaissance era district with beautiful buildings and plenty of character. You can spend days wandering the quaint streets and popping in the world class restaurants.

Manchester does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Manchester or Lyon?

If you're looking to go shopping, Manchester and Lyon both offer plenty of excellent spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Manchester. From jewelry to boutique clothing outlets, there are many places to shop around town. Head to Manchester Arndale, Trafford Centre, or Market Street for some of the best shopping.

Lyon is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has many trendy markets, pedestrian shopping areas, and character-filled boutiques. From the charming shops in old town to the chic shopping streets, there are plenty of places to splurge around town.

Is Manchester or Lyon Better for Families?

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Manchester or Lyon.

Manchester is a very family-friendly destination. You'll find a number of kid-friendly activities around town including the popular Legoland Discovery Center. Another fun activity is taking a behind the scenes CBBC interactive tour at MediaCityUK. Animal lovers will enjoy visiting the SeaLife Aquarium or the Chester Zoo and sports enthusiasts will not want to miss a visit to the National Football Museum or doing a tour of Old Trafford where you can also visit the Manchester United Museum.

Lyon is a very kid-friendly city. The city has many kid-friendly museums including Musée des Confluences and the Cinema and Miniature Museum. There are also playgrounds, patisseries, and river cruises that you can enjoy as a family. Puppet shows are also fun, but do note that they're usually in French. While the restaurants are amazing for adults, it can be tricky to find a kid-friendly option with early opening hours that are convenient for little ones.

Is Manchester or Lyon Better for Couples?

Both Manchester and Lyon are excellent destinations to visit as a couple.

Manchester is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Couples can enjoy a visit to a spa, a nice meal out, or simply wandering down the canal. For a unique experience, you can hit to slopes at Chill Factore.

Lyon is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples can enjoy wandering the beautiful Old Town, taking a river cruise, and dining on some of the best food in France.

Is Manchester or Lyon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lyon is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Lyon is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The city has several hostels and a number of activities that are fun for budget travelers and backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Manchester. You'll find hostels around town and a number of visitors, particularly during the sports season.

Is Manchester or Lyon Better for Students?

Lyon is very popular for its student-friendly activities. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Lyon. It is a very livable city with many fun cultural activities for students. There are many different entertainment options during the day, and during the evening there are plenty of places to hang out.

Manchester is a great city to visit as a student. There's a large number of students as well as a great music scene and tons of festivals that make this a great city to do your studies.

Is Manchester or Lyon Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lyon is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Lyon has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The city has a metro, trams, and buses, that make it easy to get around.

Public transit in Manchester can get you to some places easily. The city has bus, train, and tram options for travel.

Is Manchester or Lyon a more walkable city?

Lyon is great for its walkability. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Lyon is very walkable. The old town is particularly walkable, but the hills can make things a bit challenging. There are also a number of pedestrian streets around town.

Manchester is a somewhat walkable place. Some neighborhoods are more walkable than others.

For even more information, also check out Is Manchester Worth Visiting? and Is Lyon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lyon or Manchester?

How long in Manchester or Lyon?

In either Manchester or Lyon, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Lyon than Manchester because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Manchester, and 2-5 days is enough time in Lyon.

Families should spend more time in Lyon than Manchester. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Lyon, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Lyon than Manchester. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Lyon that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lyon than Manchester if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Lyon.

One day in Manchester or Lyon?

Manchester is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

With museums and nightlife around the beautiful city of Lyon, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Manchester or Lyon?

Manchester is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

With nightlife and food around the big city destination of Lyon, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Manchester or Lyon?

You'll find food and shopping around the diverse big city of Manchester. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Lyon, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Manchester or Lyon?

The diverse city of Manchester offers shopping and museums. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Lyon is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United Kingdom, The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Manchester and Lyon, we can see that Manchester is more expensive. And not only is Lyon much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lyon would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lyon and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Manchester would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Manchester than you might in Lyon.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Manchester Expensive? and Is Lyon Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Manchester or Lyon?

Lyon has a larger population, and is about 19% larger than the population of Manchester. When comparing the sizes of Manchester and Lyon, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Manchester or Lyon?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Manchester or Lyon in the Summer?

Both Lyon and Manchester during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Manchester this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Lyon for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Manchester is cooler than Lyon. Typically, the summer temperatures in Manchester in July average around 16°C (62°F), and Lyon averages at about 22°C (71°F).

In Lyon, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Manchester often gets less sunshine than Lyon. Manchester gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 285 hours of full sun.

Manchester usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Lyon. Manchester gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Manchester or Lyon in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Manchester and Lyon. Many travelers come to Manchester for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Lyon in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Manchester is generally cooler than Lyon. Daily temperatures in Manchester average around 11°C (52°F), and Lyon fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

Manchester usually receives less sunshine than Lyon during autumn. Manchester gets 97 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Manchester usually receives around the same amount of rain as Lyon. Manchester gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Manchester or Lyon in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Manchester as well as Lyon. Many visitors come to Manchester in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Lyon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Lyon can be very cold during winter. Manchester can get quite cold in the winter. Manchester is around the same temperature as Lyon in the winter. The daily temperature in Manchester averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Lyon fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Manchester often gets less sunshine than Lyon. Manchester gets 53 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 62 hours of full sun.

Manchester usually gets more rain in January than Lyon. Manchester gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Manchester or Lyon in the Spring?

Both Lyon and Manchester are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Manchester for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Lyon because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Manchester is cooler than Lyon. Typically, the spring temperatures in Manchester in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Lyon averages at about 11°C (53°F).

Manchester usually receives less sunshine than Lyon during spring. Manchester gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Manchester usually receives less rain than Lyon. Manchester gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Lyon and Manchester